BBC Radio Solent is launching a new weekend radio programme for listeners in south-west Dorset

Thu 23 Jul 2009

The following is an announcement from BBC South. The Dorset Broadcasting Action Group (DorBAG) welcomes this move towards improving radio services in Dorset. It is a start, although we still press for a full BBC Radio Dorset station! However, we wish Chris Carnegy, Harry Crawford and his colleagues all the best with the new programme.

Residents within the new catchment areas are encouraged to contact Harry with anything of interest.

"BBC Radio Solent is launching a new weekend radio programme for listeners in south-west Dorset.

The new show, called the Big Dorset Brunch, will be broadcast on Saturday mornings, from 25 July 2009.

It will be presented by Radio Solent's Dorset reporter Harry Crawford, who is originally from Dorchester, and will provide a new platform for events, community groups and topical discussions, focused on the Weymouth and Dorchester areas and beyond.

Talking about the new programme, Harry says: "This is a great opportunity to celebrate an area that I know and love. I can't wait to get started.

"We really want people in the area to get in touch and let us know what's going on down their way – their contributions will help make the Big Dorset Brunch a success."

Following consultation with the Dorset Broadcasting Action Group, Radio Solent's general news bulletins are being extended to incorporate news from south-west Dorset, replacing the current split bulletin arrangement experienced by listeners around Weymouth and Dorchester.

Solent's Managing Editor Chris Carnegy says: "It's our ambition to provide the most comprehensive local service of news and information that we possibly can.

"With a team and a studio in Dorchester, and an FM signal specially beamed across the Weymouth and Dorchester area, we have the perfect opportunity.

"I'm looking forward to hearing a rich mix of topics and voices from a very special part of Dorset."

The Big Dorset Brunch will be broadcast on BBC Radio Solent, 103.8 FM, Saturdays, 8.00-11.00am.